Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600

Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 1989 Rolex Sea-Dweller

Basic Info Listing code : RDUXW9 Brand : Rolex Model : Sea-Dweller 4000 Reference number : 16600 Movement : Automatic Case material : Steel Bracelet material : Steel Year of production : 1989 Condition : Used (Very good) Scope of delivery : No original box, no original papers Gender : Men's watch/Unisex Location : United States of America, Los Angeles Price : 9,850 [Negotiable Availability : Item is in stock Caliber Movement : Automatic Caliber/movement : 3135 Base caliber : 3135 Power reserve : 48 h Number of jewels : 31 Case Case material : Steel Case diameter : 40 mm Water resistance : Over 120 ATM Bezel material : Steel Crystal : Sapphire crystal Dial : Black Dial numerals : No numerals Bracelet/strap Bracelet material : Steel Bracelet color : Steel Clasp : Fold clasp Clasp material : Steel Functions Date Other Product safety : Show information Within the history of Rolex models, few topics spark more debate than the significance of one model versus another; however, the Sea-Dweller is undoubtedly one of the most important watches ever created. First introduced in 1967 with the reference 1665, the Sea-Dweller featured innovative patented technology that helped further human exploration to parts otherwise considered impossible to reach. In collaboration with Comex and utilized in the famed SeaLab missions, the Sea-Dweller built upon the existing Rolex Submariner platform to increase the depth rating of the watch to an impressive 2000ft. This impressive increase in possible depth was the result of bulking up the case, but more importantly, the invention and development of the Helium Escape Valve or HEV, which allowed for helium molecules to transfer in and out of the watch case without damaging the watch. Helium gas was essential in the breathing gas mixture used during the experimental saturation diving missions at the time; however, due to helium being such a small gas particle, it was able to enter watches during the missions, but without a method for the gas to escape would cause the watches to catastrophically fail upon decompression. The invention of the HEV was revolutionary as it allowed the helium gas watches to \"escape\" during decompression, thus making the watch able to reach unheard-of depths at the time. The Rolex ref. 16600 is the third version of the Sea-Dweller and was introduced in 1988, directly succeeding the very transitional ref. 16660 \"Triple 6\" model, and was replaced in 2008. The ref. 16600 boasts an incredible depth rating of 4000ft or 1220m, utilizes a sapphire crystal and a unidirectional click-spring bezel, and employs the Rolex in-house cal. 3135 with quick-set date functionality, and features the improved 93160 Oyster bracelet with solid end pieces. SPECS Stock #\t\tRLXSD16600-11 Brand\t\tRolex Style\t\tSea-Dweller Model\t\t16600 Serial\t\tL7XXXXX Size\t\tMen's Material\t\tStainless Steel Dial\t\tGlossy Black Millimeters\t\t40 Bracelet\t\tRolex Oyster 93160 W/ Solid End Pieces CASE & BRACELET The strong case was recently professionally restored to feature factory-like dimensions and finishing throughout, featuring crisp chamfers and brishing, with almost no signs of previous use present. The black bezel insert is in wonderful condition, retaining its tritium pearl, which matches the dial lume perfectly, while showing gentle wear and no fading to the black color. The case back retains crisp finishing with all of the factory engravings in crisp and full present condition. The era-correct Rolex 93160 Oyster bracelet with 592B solid end pieces dates slightly later than the watch and retains 12 links, including the integrated divers extension, which show nominal stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The glossy black dial with white gold surround markers is in near-perfect condition, showing no damage and nominal elements of age. The original tritium lume plots and hands feature a subtle, yet charming eggshell coloration that matches perfectly. Under UV light inspection, the second hand exhibits some superficial surface cracking in the lume, which remains stable, while no other degradation is present throughout the dial or hands. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time perfectly; the previous service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.